Psalms 37:22-23 Do not forsake me, O Lord my God. Do not depart from me. Be attentive to my help, O Lord, the God of my salvation.

What began with a recognition of sin, concludes with faith and hope. Even knowing the reality of sin in his life, the psalmist also knows that his only hope is in the mercy of God. He has no right to this mercy, for it is pure grace. But he trusts that God, who is ever faithful and compassionate, will forgive his transgressions and restore him to a right relationship. The words of Isaiah confirms this faith and hope. "Even if a mother can forget her child, I will never forget you." Knowing this, knowing our own sinfulness, let us hasten to return to the Lord, who hastens to receive us with open arms. Before we ask, he has already forgiven us. But that grace will not have its full effect until we ask with a contrite heart.